This Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes recipe is a real winner! With ground beef, a tangy sauce, and soft buns, it’s a tasty meal that’s super simple to make. Just set it and forget it!
I love how I can whip this up in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you just want something yummy and quick! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you need a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Just be careful, as they can dry out faster.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. If you want a milder taste, try using shallots or even green onions instead.
Green Bell Pepper: This is optional, but I really recommend it for extra flavor and color. You can swap it for a red or yellow bell pepper if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Ketchup: This is the base of the sauce. For a healthier twist, you can use no-sugar-added ketchup or make your own with tomato paste and a bit of water.
Brown Sugar: If you’re cutting down on sugar, honey or maple syrup can be a good substitute. Just reduce the amount a little since they’re sweeter.
How Do I Get the Meat Just Right in Sloppy Joes?
Browning the meat first helps lock in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large skillet over medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you need to, cook in batches.
- Stir the mixture frequently until the beef is completely browned and the onions are soft. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
This step keeps your Sloppy Joes rich in flavor and ensures every bite is super tasty!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 4 to 6 hours to cook on low in your slow cooker (or 2 to 3 hours on high). It’s a great way to set dinner and forget about it while you take care of other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and green bell pepper (if using). Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, and the onions are nice and soft. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat before moving on.
2. Transferring to the Slow Cooker:
Once the beef mixture is cooked and drained, transfer it to your slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
3. Mixing the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add all the ingredients that make this sloppy joe so delicious! Pour in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cooking:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. If you can, give it a stir once in a while to make sure everything stays mixed up. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors develop!
5. Serving:
When you’re ready to eat, grab those hamburger buns. Spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe mixture onto each bun. For an extra treat, you can toast the buns lightly before adding the filling.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your Sloppy Joes hot and enjoy a warm, hearty meal! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or game day gatherings. Dig in and enjoy every messy bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as lean meat can dry out faster. If you choose turkey, consider adding a little olive oil for moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’re reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the cooking time if needed, as lentils may require less time.
What Can I Serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling fancy, sweet potato fries would also be a great addition!
